Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat began formal consultations with key members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) on Monday, marking a significant move ahead of the 2027 governorship election. The GAC, a powerful political caucus influential in shaping leadership decisions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, has long played a central role in the state's governance dynamics. Hamzat met with Otunba Busura Alebiosu Bush at his residence in Kosofe, where he was received by Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development Ekundayo Bush Alebiosu. Among those in attendance were Alhaji Mutiu Are, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, and Razak Ajala.
The deputy governor also visited Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, another prominent GAC figure. On his verified X account, Hamzat described the discussions as "honest and thoughtful conversations" centred on Lagos's future and the leadership needed to maintain its growth. He stressed the value of listening and collaboration in building "a stronger Lagos." The consultations come amid growing speculation about the APC's succession plan, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's second term ending in 2027. Recent signals suggest key APC figures, including House of Representatives member Hon. James Faleke, are aligning behind Hamzat as the preferred successor.
Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat's outreach to the Governance Advisory Council is less about consultation than consolidation. By engaging GAC heavyweights like Otunba Busura Alebiosu Bush and Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi early, he is not seeking advice—he is securing endorsements. The timing, paired with Hon. James Faleke's public endorsement just days prior, suggests a coordinated effort to position Hamzat as the natural successor within the APC's Lagos power structure.
Behind the courteous language of "listening" and "collaboration" lies a well-calibrated political strategy. The GAC has historically acted as a kingmaker in Lagos APC politics, and Hamzat's move signals an understanding that administrative competence alone won't win the governorship. With Sanwo-Olu's tenure ending in 2027, the race is effectively open, and Hamzat's technocratic image—backed by figures like Senator Obanikoro and Commissioner Alebiosu—positions him as the continuity candidate in a system that favours stability over disruption.
For Lagos residents, particularly the middle-class professionals and urban planners who value policy consistency, Hamzat's emergence offers predictability. His focus on infrastructure, economic sustainability, and administrative depth speaks to voters weary of political theatrics. But for grassroots communities grappling with housing, flooding, and access to services, symbolism isn't enough—delivery will define his appeal.
This is not an isolated campaign push but part of a broader pattern in Lagos politics: power transitions are managed from within, not won on the streets. Since 1999, the state's ruling party has prioritized internal consensus, and Hamzat's GAC engagements fit squarely within that tradition.
